Edward Allen Willette

The family of Edward “Ed” Willette is deeply saddened to announce his passing on July 5, 2026. Born April 1, 1954, in Burlington Vermont, the son of Charles N. Willette and Mildred L.
(Fitzpatrick) Willette. Ed spent most of his childhood in the Burlington area making mischief alongside his seven siblings: Patsy, Cherrie, Charlie, Colleen, Monica, Michael, and Peter. Ed was a 1972 graduate of Burlington High School, following graduation he entered into the family trade working alongside his dad as a lineman. Ed spent most of his career as a
lineman with Central Vermont Public Service (now Green Mountain Power). Eventually, he moved to Bell Atlantic (now Consolidated Communications) as a Special Services Technician. Following retirement, Ed worked part time at Southwest Vermont Medical Center in the IS Department where he was still employed at the time of his passing.

Ed was passionate about his trade, mentoring and teaching dozens of coworkers as they prepared for upcoming exams and worked to learn more technical aspects of the field. He
was a true “Jack of all trades,” a do-it-yourselfer who built his family home and continued to support his children in tackling their many home improvement projects. When Ed wasn’t
working he enjoyed cooking for his family (especially “brefix”), watching action movies, target shooting, and spending time at his camp in the woods.

Ed held many titles: husband, father, brother, cousin, friend; however, the title that made him most proud was “Popie.” Ed’s pride and joy was his eleven grandchildren: Josh, Sean, Isaac, Asher, Evan, Maddy, Eli, Jackson, Noah, Lucille, and Eden. He invested countless hours in learning about their interests, listening to their life aspirations, cheering them on from the sidelines, teaching them tricks of the trade, and preparing their favorite meals - as Ed would say: “those kids can eat!” When Ed wasn’t with his grandchildren, he could often be found sharing with others about their many accomplishments.

Ed leaves behind his wife, Mary, of 42 years. In their early years they enjoyed working together at Central Vermont Public Service and taking road trips on Ed’s Harley Davidson
Motorcycle. Later in life they dedicated their time to raising their children (Jason, Sara, and Samantha) and making memories through family trips to amusement parks, national landmarks, and natural attractions. Ed was a protector and caretaker. He guided his children through life with a gentle hand ensuring safety and security even into adulthood. In recent years, Ed’s role as caretaker extended to his wife who he lovingly and selflessly provided for during her time of need.

Ed will be lovingly remembered by his wife, Mary; his step-son, Jason (Allison) Fleming; his daughters: Sara (Joe) Frey, and Samantha (Joe) Lauzon; and his grandchildren: Josh Harvey, Sean Fleming, Maddy Fleming, Isaac Frey, Evan Frey, Jackson Frey, Lucille Frey, Asher Lauzon, Eli Lauzon, Noah Lauzon, and Eden Lauzon. He was predeceased by his sister, Patsy; his mother, Mildred; and his father, Charles.

A Celebration of Ed’s Life will be held on Saturday, July 18 from 12:00pm-3:00pm at The Parish Hall located at The Church of Sacred Heart St. Francis deSales; 238 Main Street, Bennington, Vermont.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Ed’s name directly to The School of Sacred Heart St. Francis deSales, 307 School St, Bennington, VT 05201; or through the office of E.P. Mahar & Son Funeral Home: 628 Main St, Bennington, VT 05201.